The Top 10 Things To See And Do In Incheon, South Korea
Although Incheon is a port city, it is definitely not a boring one, as there are various interesting spots that are worth seeing, such as the beautiful Incheon Grand Park, the peaceful Eurwagni Beach, and the amazing Wolmido Island. The Culture Trip introduces you to the best sights and activities in Incheon.
Incheon Grand Park
Botanical Garden, Park, Zoo
Covering an area of 727 acres, Incheon Grand Parkis the largest urban natural green park in the city. It is surrounded by two giant mountains, Gwanmosan Mountain and Sangassan Mountain, where you can go hiking or hill sledding. There are also a botanical garden, a children’s zoo, artificial turf playing grounds, and some beautiful lakes within the park. It is also a great place for a bike ride. Incheon Grand Park © Marle/Flickr
Spasis
Spa
If you want to enjoy a relaxing hot bath in Incheon, you should probably go to Spasis, the biggest jjimjilbang(spa and sauna centre) in Incheon. They provide a wide range of superb facilities, including cave rooms, restaurants, swimming pools, a fitness room, a movie theatre, billiards, a children’s room, and some computers. Spasis is definitely the best place to go after a busy day sightseeing in Incheon.
Eurwangni Beach
Eurwangni Beach is a cozy white sand beach located near Incheon International Airport. It is suitable for those who are looking for excitement, as banana boats and jet skis are available there. Parents and children will love Eurwangni Beach too, because the average depth of the sea is about 1.5 meters, which is not so dangerous for kids. The beach is also a great astronomical observation spot, where you will be able to appreciate the beautiful sunset, as well as gaze up at the stars and galaxies. Eurwangni Beach © Eduardo M.C./Flickr
Sinpo International Market
Market, Farmers' Market, Farm Shop, Korean
In the late 19th century there was already much trading activity in the Sinpo International Market, as Sinpo-dong was an international port where many foreigners passed by and traded. The market here was thus gradually formed. In the market, you will be able to find a lot of delicious Korean street food, such as tteokbokki(spicy rice cake), kimbap(rice roll), kimchi(fermented cabbage), as well as the most popular dakgangjeong(deep-fried chicken). Sinpo dakgangjeongis very famous among Korean people, the meat is juicy, the skin is extremely crispy and it is very tasty.
Jeondeungsa Temple
Building
Jeondeungsa Temple, located in the Samrangseong Fortress, is a religious temple built over a thousand year ago. It was used as a sanctuary enshrining family ancestors. The temple is a very grand one, with several great buildings and structures, such as the Daeungbojeon, Beomjong Bell, the Yangheonsu Victory Monument, and Yaksajeon. Daeungbojeon, the main building, is the greatest architectural marvel in the temple,containing many fine statues. The temple complex is surrounded by many trees and colourful flowers. Jeondeungsa Temple © Brian Negin/Flickr
Wolmido Island
Amusement Park, Park
Going to Wolmido Island for a day trip is a fabulous idea. It takes half an hour by bus from Incheon subway station. There is a big amusement park where you can play Viking Ship, the 70-meter-high Hyper Shoot Drop, Tagada Disco, or go on the 115-meter-high Ferris Wheel. If you want to enjoy the natural environment, you can go to Wolmi Traditional Park in which many beautiful gardens, ponds, and buildings are located. Wolmi Park © travel oriented/Flickr
Chinatown
In Incheon Chinatown, there are great restaurants, informative museums, and interesting pedestrian streets, full of Chinese characteristics. You can have a look at Chinatown Paeru, Jung-san School, Euiseondang, and the Korean-Chinese Cultural Centre, where you will be able to learn about the life of ancient Chinese people in Korea. It is also the place where jajangmyun(noodles with black bean sauce) was invented, so there are many restaurant selling this delicious dish.The most ancient and popular restaurant is call Gonghwachun, which is really worth trying. Chinatown © InSapphoWeTrust/Flickr
Korea Traditional Cultural Experience Centre
Located in Incheon International Airport, Korea Traditional Cultural Experience Centre is the best place for you to understand Korean culture. The centre is interesting and informative, you can join their traditional craft workshop, appreciate art performances, or just walk around their exhibition and booths selling traditional cultural products, such as ceramic, lacquer, and knot-tying accessories. If you are interested in Korean culture, you can chat with the staff, as everyone can speak fluent English.
Buam Galbi
Restaurant
Buam Galbi is a Korean barbecue restaurant opened in 1978, which serves diners with the freshest and finest meats. It is so popular that many locals, tourists, and even celebrities love eating there. They offer a wide range of meat and seafood, while the most famous dishes include pork belly, hen-u (Korean native cattle), and ox tongue, which are all succulent, juicy and tasty. Besides food, their service is brilliant, as the staff are friendly and they will help you to grill and cut the meat.
Sorae Pogu Traditional Fish Market
Market, Korean
It is not difficult to find fresh seafood in Incheon, as it is the second largest port city in South Korea. But if you want to find a place selling all kinds of seafood, you should definitely go to Sorae Pogu Traditional Fish Market, which is especially famous for selling fresh blue swimming crabs. If you go in the early morning, you will able to buy their freshly caught crabs and other seafood. Moreover, there are many restaurants located in the market so that diners can enjoy their personally picked seafood immediately.